Can my employer change my employment contract without my consent?

An employment contract is a legally binding agreement — both parties must consent to any changes. Your employer cannot unilaterally change fundamental terms such as your salary, hours, job title, or place of work without your agreement. A change imposed without consent is a breach of contract.

If your employer imposes a fundamental breach without consent, you have several options. You can refuse and continue on the old terms, making clear you do not accept the change. You can accept under protest — working under the new terms while reserving your right to claim breach of contract. Or you can resign and bring a constructive dismissal claim, provided the breach is sufficiently serious. Working under changed terms for too long without protest can amount to 'affirmation' — losing the right to claim.

Employers may have contractual flexibility clauses (allowing reasonable changes to duties or location within reasonable bounds). The key is whether the clause is clear, unambiguous, and the change falls within its scope. Changes outside the clause — particularly to pay or fundamental job content — still require consent.